Four South London councils have written to the Prime Minister to endorse Gatwick Airport in the pending decision over the future of London Airports.
Croydon, Kingston upon Thames, Merton and Richmond upon Thames have written to Teresa May MP to add their voice to the case for selecting Gatwick. With an existing gross value added of £28 billion, the councils are working together in the South London Partnership further to strengthen the economic contribution that the boroughs can make to London and the whole country.
In the letter, the councils argue that the self-financing Gatwick proposition offers the potential of a significant economic boost within the next 10 years. Its lower environmental impacts, taxpayer costs and legal barriers also contribute to making what they believe is a compelling case. Cllr Stephen Alambritis, Leader of Merton Council and Chairman of the South London Partnership, said:
“The South London Partnership boroughs stand ready to work with the Government, the Mayor, Gatwick and other partners to maximise the benefits of a new runway both in terms of stimulating additional economic growth in our area and by providing a skilled workforce to support other areas of growth.
“One thing in particular on which we want to contribute is ensuring the transport links to Gatwick and connectivity more widely, including into our area, central London and with other key corridors, are developed to support the full potential of airport expansion.
“Together with our neighbouring boroughs, we urge Ms May to make the right decision. Choose Gatwick.”